The Tanzania Telecommunications Limited (TTCL), has installed high-speed internet connectivity on Africa’s highest mountain, Mt Kilimanjaro through a national broadband project.
The internet connectivity was launched at 3,720 metres above sea level at Horombo Huts but the ICT minister, Nape Nnauye who disclosed this on Tuesday said it was expected to reach the highest peak Uhuru, at 5,895m, in October.
The ICT Minister said the project would increase the visibility of the mountain and attract more visitors to the country, leading to tourist destinations.
“Tourists can now communicate worldwide from the summit of the mountain. It will also enhance the safety of mountain climbers and porters.”
Nnauye added, “Some Tsh146 million ($6.3 million) has been spent to take the internet services to the Horombo Huts. Connectivity ended at around 1,860m, making it impossible for hikers to make phone calls beyond that point”.
But Mount Kilimanjaro attracts about 50,000 trekkers from across the world annually.
